BKR and EVR registrations raise many questions and uncertainties. In practice, we see that clients often refrain from taking action because they think that “nothing can be done about it anyway.” That’s a pity, because many assumptions turn out to be incorrect. In this blog, we list the most common misconceptions about BKR and EVR registrations in a row — and explain how it actually works legally.

Misconception 1: “A bank can always register”

No. Both a BKR and an EVR registration must meet strict legal requirements. A bank or credit provider may not register automatically or by default. Among other things, there must be:

• a clear legal basis

• a careful balancing of interests

• a proportional measure

Is this missing? Then the registration contestable.

Misconception 2: “After five years, everything disappears automatically”

This only applies to certain BKR registrations and even then not without exceptions. Moreover:

• mistakes remain mistakes, even after years

• disproportionate registrations must not be continued

• EVR registrations are subject to a different regime

So waiting is by no means always the right choice.

Misconception 3: “Once the debt is repaid, I no longer have any rights”

This is not correct either. After repayment, it must be assessed whether:

• continuation is still necessary

• the registration still serves a legitimate purpose

• your personal interests weigh more heavily

In many cases, maintaining no longer defensible.

Misunderstanding 4: “Fraud does not need to be proven for an EVR registration”

An EVR registration due to fraud requires more than a suspicion. There must be:

• concrete facts

• objective substantiation

• demonstrable involvement

A mistake or ambiguity is not fraud. In practice, banks regularly go too far here.

Misconception 5: “The bank always has the final say”

Although banks have a lot of influence, they are not untouchable. Registrations are assessed against:

• privacy legislation

• principles of proportionality

• reasonableness and due care

Judges and regulators intervene when boundaries are crossed.

Misconception 6: “You can’t see an EVR registration anyway, so it doesn’t matter”

An EVR registration may not be visible like a BKR registration, but the consequences are often more serious:

• applications are immediately rejected

• relationships with banks are terminated

• entrepreneurs get stuck

Precisely because the register is less transparent, the risk is often underestimated.

Misconception 7: “A standard objection letter is sufficient”

In practice, a general or online sample letter rarely effective. A successful objection requires:

• legal substantiation

• factual accuracy

• insight into personal consequences

Without a tailored approach, a registration usually just stays in place.

Misconception 8: “It only makes sense to do something once I am rejected”

Waiting until rejection is often too late. An earlier rejection:

• worsens your position

• is sometimes recorded

• makes subsequent processes more difficult

Having it assessed in advance is almost always wiser.

What is actually sensible with a BKR or EVR registration?

• first gain insight into the registration

• have it assessed to see whether it is legally tenable

• take timely action

• do not rely on assumptions or stories

Every situation is different and requires an individual assessment.

Conclusion: assumptions often stand in the way of success

Many people take no action due to persistent misunderstandings about BKR and EVR registrations. That is unnecessary. In practice, it often turns out that registrations incorrect, disproportionate, or insufficiently substantiated are.

Unsure? Have your situation assessed before you make important financial decisions.